A recent study suggests that people who discontinue new slimming jabs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People buying such drugs should be informed of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to original weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Doctors suggest the way of the jabs explains the heightened regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "underscore the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly starving," described a patient.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
